Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) for Class B to A

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has established minimum training standards for individuals upgrading their Class B commercial driver's license (CDL-B) to a Class A commercial driver's license (CDL-A). These individuals are subject to the entry-level driver training (ELDT) requirements. This Class B to A CDL course was created in collaboration with an approved training provider listed on FMCSA's Training Provider Registry (TPR).

This CDL license training course is designed for commercial motor vehicle drivers who currently hold a Class B CDL and are seeking to upgrade to a Class A CDL. The Class A CDL is generally required to operate heavier vehicles with a combination of truck and trailer, such as a tractor-trailer, whereas a Class B CDL generally authorizes the driver to operate heavier straight trucks.

Throughout this online ELDT theory course, you will learn how to meet all theory (knowledge) requirements listed in the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) 49 CFR Part 380, Special Training Requirements. It includes sections covering basic operation, safe operating procedures, advanced operating practices, vehicle systems and reporting malfunctions, and non-driving activities.

Upon completion of this course, our system will automatically upload your ELDT records to the U.S. Department of Transportation's (DOT) TPR. You can take your state's CDL test upon completing other federal training requirements, such as behind-the-wheel training. Those who successfully take the CDL test will be issued a state CDL and may be eligible to be hired by companies that operate Class A trucks in commerce.

Note: There are no refunds or transfers for this course. This course is excluded from Hope Training Academy standard refund and transfer policies. Once access to the course is provided, no refunds or transfers will be allowed. This course includes the required ELDT theory exams for each of the units.; it does NOT include the behind-the-wheel training, cost of the CDL test, or other state exam charges.

State Compliance Requirements

Online Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) courses do not meet state requirements in Virginia or Washington. If you reside in either state, this online course will not be accepted by state authorities and cannot be used to fulfill ELDT training requirements. Learners in these states must complete an approved in-person program to satisfy compliance standards.

What you will learn

• Basic Operation: Teaches the interaction between driver-trainees and the CMV, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (FMCSRs), introduction to the basic CMV instruments and controls, basic operating characteristics of a CMV, vehicle inspections, controlling the motion of CMVs under various road and traffic conditions, employing shifting and backing techniques, and coupling-uncoupling CMVs
• Safe Operating Procedures: Teaches driver-trainees the practices required for the safe operation of the combination vehicle on the highway under various road, weather, and traffic conditions
• Advanced Operating Practices: Teaches driver-trainees about the advanced skills necessary to recognize potential hazards and handle a CMV when faced with a hazard
• Vehicle Systems and Reporting Malfunctions: Teaches driver-trainees the vehicle and its systems and subsystems, vehicle inspection, operation, and maintenance, and the impact of those factors upon highway safety and operational efficiency
• Non-Driving Activities: Teaches driver-trainees the activities that do not involve operating the CMV, such as cargo handling, environmental issues, driver hours of service, post-crash procedures, drugs and alcohol, and trip planning

How you will benefit

• Satisfies ELDT requirements for obtaining the Class A CDL for individuals who obtain a Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP) on or after February 7, 2022
• Prepares the student to take the state-administered CDL skills test
• Enables the driver to operate specialized CMVs upon issuance of the CDL
• Upon completion of this course, the results will be submitted to the FMCSA Training Provider Registry
• Enrolled students are invited to attend our exclusive annual virtual National Apprenticeship Week events, featuring live webinars, workshops, and employer interactions

Additionally, once enrolled in an ELDT course, you will receive access to the following free and optional CDL Permit Prep courses:

• CDL Permit Prep: Air Brakes
• CDL Permit Prep: Combination Vehicles
• CDL Permit Prep: Hazardous Materials
• CDL Permit Preps: Doubles & Triples
• CDL Permit Prep: Tankers
• CDL Permit Prep: General Knowledge

The prep courses for the required CDL written exams taken through your local DMV are based on the CDL Class chosen and your state's requirements. Each state has different requirements for the CDL Class A, B, or Hazardous Materials, so obtaining the manual for your specific area is recommended. These can be found online, or a book may be picked up at your local DMV.

1. Basic Operation
   1. Orientation
   2. Control Systems/Dashboard
   3. Pre- and Post-Trip Inspections
   4. Basic Control
   5. Shifting/Operating Transmissions
   6. Backing and Docking
   7. Coupling and Uncoupling
2. Safe Operating Procedures
   1. Visual Search
   2. Communication
   3. Distracted Driving
   4. Speed Management
   5. Space Management
   6. Night Operation
   7. Extreme Driving Conditions
3. Advanced Operating Practices
   1. Hazard Perception
   2. Skid Control/Recovery, Jackknifing, and Other Emergencies
   3. Railroad-Highway Grade Crossings
4. Vehicle Systems and Reporting Malfunctions
   1. Identification and Diagnosis of Malfunctions
   2. Roadside Inspections
   3. Maintenance
5. Non-Driving Activities
1. Hours of Service Requirements
2. Fatigue and Wellness Awareness

Requirements:

Hardware Requirements:

• This course can be taken on either a PC, Mac, or Chromebook.

Software Requirements:

• PC: Windows 10 or later.
• Mac: macOS 12 or later.
• Browser: The latest version of Google Chrome or Mozilla Firefox is preferred. Microsoft Edge and Safari are also compatible.
• Microsoft Word Online
• Adobe Acrobat Reader
• Software must be installed and fully operational before the course begins.

Other:

• Email capabilities and access to a personal email account.

Instructional Material Requirements:

The instructional materials required for this course are included in enrollment and will be available online.

Prerequisites:

There are no prerequisites to take this course.

Certification Requirements:

To upgrade the Class B commercial driver's license (CDL-B) to a Class A commercial driver's license (CDL-A):

• Complete a Class B to A CDL ELDT theory course, which is approved by the U.S. Department of Transportation, and listed in the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) Training Provider Registry (TPR)

State Requirements:

This program does not meet the educational requirements to apply for professional licensure or certification in the states of Virginia or Washington. If you reside in either state, this online course will not be accepted by state authorities and cannot be used to fulfill ELDT training requirements. Learners in these states must complete an approved in-person program to satisfy compliance standards.

Each state's licensure or certification authority is responsible for establishing the requirements for professional licensure or certification in its state. Completing this program does not guarantee professional licensure or certification. Eligibility may also depend on factors like work experience, professional examinations, passing a background check, and other criteria. Students are encouraged to contact the appropriate state licensing authority to confirm the requirements for licensure or a certificate in the state where they live, work, or intend to live or work.

This is not an instructor-facilitated course; however, support will be provided through email, online forms, and phone.

What is the refund and transfer policy for this ELDT training course?

This course does not fall under the Hope Training Academy standard refund or transfer policies. Once access to the course is provided, no refunds or transfers will be allowed.

What are the CDL permit classes?

Obtaining a commercial learner's permit (CLP) is the first step toward earning a commercial driver's license (CDL): Class A, Class B, or Class C. A CLP authorizes you to practice driving a commercial motor vehicle with a qualified CDL holder sitting next to you. Once you possess your CLP for 14 days and complete applicable entry-level driver training, you are eligible to take the CDL skills test.

What is the difference between a Class A and Class B CDL?

Class A licenses are considered the "universal" CDL, allowing drivers to operate multiple types of commercial trucks and tractor trailers. A Class B license also allows you to drive different types of vehicles, such as straight trucks and dump trucks, but it is more limiting than a Class A CDL. The differences between the two CDLs relate to the types and weight of the vehicles, particularly the load that the vehicles will tow.

Does this course prepare you for a certification?

This course includes the required ELDT theory exams for each of the units; it does NOT include the behind-the-wheel training, cost of the CDL test, or other state exam charges.

When can I start this course?

This course is open enrollment, so you can register and start the course whenever you are ready. Access to your course can take 24-48 business hours.

How long does it take to complete this course?

After you register, you will receive 3 months to complete the course. The time allotted for completion has been calculated based on the number of course hours.

What if I don't have enough time to complete the course within the time frame provided?

The time allotted for course completion has been calculated based on the number of course hours. However, if you are unable to complete the course, contact the student advising team to see what options you may have available to work out a suitable completion date. Please note that an extension fee may be charged.

What kind of support will I receive?

Our courses are designed to accommodate various learning preferences. Depending on the course structure, you may get different forms of support. Self-paced courses are designed to be user-friendly and independent, minimizing the need for external support. In courses with instructors, our direct platform support feature includes opportunities for questions, discussions, and remediation, with email and phone support available for select courses. Our student advising team is available to guide you on program requirements and administrative requests, but they do not provide assistance with course content. Our goal is to provide you with the necessary support for success, whether it's through self-paced exploration, direct communication, or guidance from our advising team.

What happens when I complete the course?

Upon successfully passing the final exam, you will be awarded a certificate of completion from the school or organization that you registered through.

Am I guaranteed a job?

Hope Training Academy courses will help you gain the skills you need to obtain an entry-level position in most cases. However, you should always research the job market in your area before enrolling.

Can I get financial assistance?

Hope Training Academy courses are non-credit, so they do not qualify for federal aid, FAFSA, and Pell Grant. In some states, vocational rehab or workforce development boards may provide funding to take our courses. Additionally, you may qualify for financial assistance if you meet certain requirements. Learn more about financial assistance.

How can I get more information about this course?

If you have questions that are not answered on our website, representatives are available by phone. You can also call us at 1-855-532-7642 during regular business hours to have your questions promptly answered. If you are visiting us during non-business hours, please send us a question using the "Contact Us."